FAQ's - Custom Dog Crate Furniture & Kennels

Everything you ever wanted to know about dog crates & kennels.

From crate sizes, delivery, shipping, to lead times.

We believe life is always better when you know what to expect.

Can I use a plastic crate pan in my new crate?

Having a year old Brittany (who was a whole bunch of fun to potty train), I designed all of our Handcrafted Custom Dog Crates to accept the traditional plastic crate pans in very common sizes. Just send me a quick message and I can send you the link to where you can purchase the right size for your specific crate. The plastic crate pan prices range anywhere from $15 to $45+

How wide are the spaces between the bars?

I get that question a lot, especially from people with puppies and small dogs. We definitely had several jailbreaks through the dog gate in the kitchen when Beanie was a pup. The space will vary by kennel size.

Small = 1-5/8"

Med = 2-1/8"

Large = 2-5/8"

XL = 2-5/8"

How easy is it to assemble the DIY Kits? And...why aren't there DIY options for Large & X-Large Custom Crates?

SUPER EASY! All you need is a drill. And maybe a second set of hands to hold the panels while putting in the screws. But hey, if I can do it by myself so can you. It's piece of cake.

No Large DIY Kits?

Not yet but we are working on it! These kennels are pretty big and cumbersome . That said, cost of freight is always going to be a big consideration. Since the DIY is meant to be a more affordable option, the cost to ship the larger units in a DIY Kit doesn't save you that much money. We are always working hard to find the best prices on freight and hope to add the larger sizes in a DIY Kit soon. We will keep you posted.

What if my dog decides to use the wood of the kennel as a chew toy?

LOL... Yes, it can happen but thank goodness Beanie is past that stage. Not to worry.

For the most part dogs will typically go for the metal bars (which are almost indestructible but on occasion they will find the wood parts very tasty. We can replace any part of your Custom Handcrafted Dog Crate. Just contact me with the details and we can ship you replacement pieces.

Many competitors will use cheap soft knotty pine from their local big box store. We source our lumber from locally owned specialty lumber suppliers.

Don't take our word for it, here's the data...

** lbf = pounds of force

What is curbside delivery?

This means the shipper will bring it to your home "curbside" but not into your home. Please be sure to have one or two people available at the time of delivery to get it into your home. The crates typically weigh between 40-175 lbs, which you and a couple friends can handle pretty easily.

What is the lead time? How long does it take to build one?

"Lead time" estimate is from the time you order to the time your kennel, to it is ready to ship. Our lead time estimate is 4-6 weeks (unless otherwise noted in the listing). Special orders are 6-8 weeks.

*Temperature & humidity can affect dry time estimates.

How long does it take to ship?

"Ship time" estimates are 5-10 working days Sometimes quicker. Once your crate is complete and the shipper is booked, we will be in touch with your tentative ship date. Now I say tentative because we're talking about truck drivers/carriers here; which, are literally always a moving target. Once your kennel has been picked up and on it's way to it's forever home, I will send you another quick note with the carrier's contact info. The shipper will be in touch with you to set a delivery day and time.

Can I pick up my crate to save on the cost of shipping?

Absolutely! We love it when we get to meet our customers in person.

What's the deal with "Ready to Ship" vs. "Quick Ship" listings?

We sell our Handcrafted Dog Crates faster than we make them, but on occasion will have a couple in stock ready to go.

"Ready to Ship"An item that is in-stock, packaged and waiting to go to it's forever home.

These special listings have a complete detail of any upgrades and options that are included (unfortunately these cannot be customized). The good news is that we typically only need a few days to schedule pick up from our shop.

"Quick Ship"The item is built and just waiting for your color and hardware selections.

We will typically need approximately 5-8 business days* to install your hardware, stain, add final protective finish and time to allow it to dry before shipping.

*Temperature & humidity can affect dry time estimates.

What’s the difference between “Gently Used” and a “Demo”? And...what is your BUY WITH CONFIDENCE GUARANTEE?

“Demo”: Brand new crate that has been unwrapped to display at an event or show.

“Gently Used”: Crate has had a previous resident. Ex...Beanie has outgrown two crates that we have resold as “Used”.

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE GUARANTEE

Here’s what we do to all Demos & Gently Used Crates before they are listed for sale.

First we detail it to identify all touch ups and repairs needed to bring it to new condition.

This includes…

Repair or replace any damaged panels

Repair or replace damaged hardware

Sand, patch and touch up any dings and scratches.

Scrub & prep to add two new layers of polycoat protective finish to the interior of the crate

Final cleaning, detail and inspection before wrapping

Will my crate look exactly like the picture?

We always want you to absolutely love your pup's new home and do everything in our power to build quality pieces of furniture.

Each piece is handmade, will have its own character, unique grain patterns, color and texture. All these factors will affect the look and finish of your Custom Handcrafted Dog Crate. These unique characteristics in the wood are clues to the history of each piece and we believe it contributes to its beauty. Adding stain and color will enhance what nature has already done.

We wish we could to offer guarantees for color matching, grain consistency and movement of the wood. That would take an act of God who already thinks this natural creation is perfect.

Have more questions?

Feel free to contact us using the "Message" tool in the lower right hand side of your screen. We would love to chat and are happy to help!